He also sought to sheet some of the blame on to officials, saying the company would work with the government to establish clear background checks that are "currently absent in their commercial transportation licensing programs."

The case, almost two years after a young woman was fatally gang raped on a bus in the capital, has renewed national anger over sexual violence in India and demands for more effort to ensure women's safety.

The government rushed through legislation last year to double prison terms for rape to 20 years and to criminalize voyeurism, stalking and the trafficking of women.

#Delhi govt bans with immediate effect all operations by private cab service #Uber in the city following the alleged rape incident

But activists say much more needs to be done, including better educating youths and adding basic infrastructure, such as street lights and bathrooms to prevent women from getting caught out alone in the dark.

The New Delhi ban is a blow for Uber, which has courted acclamation and controversy around the world with a service based on hailing taxis from a smartphone app. It has faced restrictions in other countries after licensed taxi operators claimed the service was competing unfairly.

Police told Press Trust of India they were working to verify Yadav's claims that he had been acquitted of rape charges in 2011, after spending seven months in jail. PTI did not give any further details or name the police source.

PTI also reported that the 26-year-old woman who reported Friday's rape had fallen asleep during the ride home. When she woke up, she found the car parked in a secluded place. The driver then threatened her and raped her.

BONUS: What Is Uber?

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